In a decisive move, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has imposed a lifetime ban on former national cricketer and selector Manzurul Islam, barring him from any direct or indirect involvement in cricket activities under its jurisdiction. The announcement came after a thorough investigation into serious allegations of misconduct leveled against him by ex-Women’s team captain Jahanara Alam.
The board’s decision was finalized during a meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Sunday. Jahanara had accused Manzurul of sexual harassment during the 2022 Women’s World Cup, filing a formal complaint that prompted the BCB to form an independent probe committee.
Out of the four charges, two lacked sufficient evidence for confirmation. However, the committee found clear proof of inappropriate conduct in the remaining two instances. Manzurul, who served as selector and manager for the women’s team until June last year, was deemed to have violated professional standards and Supreme Court guidelines on misconduct and harassment.
BCB’s official statement underscored the gravity of the findings: ‘Based on the independent committee’s conclusions from Jahanara Alam’s complaint, the board has banned Manzurul Islam from all BCB-related employment or cricket activities.’
This action highlights the BCB’s commitment to safeguarding players, especially women, in the sport. In parallel developments, the board extended selection committee chairman Ghazi Ashraf Hossain’s term by one month beyond February 28 and greenlit the inaugural Bangladesh Premier League for women, set to kick off on April 4 with the final on April 14.
The ban sends a strong message against harassment in cricket, reinforcing accountability across the board as Bangladesh pushes forward with women’s cricket initiatives.